Message from the President

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Message from the President

The academic tradition of Zen, based on the quest for self

Hanazono University was founded in 1872 with the objective of fostering modern qualities in Zen priests. It has one of the oldest traditions in all Kyoto universities. In its history of over 130 years the university has educated countless Zen priests who have gone on to play important roles in society, working for the benefit of others. Because of the need for such people, the university today has become a comprehensive university, accepting all types of students, not only those who wish to join the Zen priesthood. Especially during the last 50 years, many graduates have gone on to become leaders throughout society.

In the second half of the 20th century, a global paradigm shift took place in our society that put modern scientific rationalism in the mainstream. However, as science and technology failed to provide answers to important questions, people began developing new value systems that emphasized respect for others and protection of the global environment. Against this background, the spirit of Zen-based humanistic education that we have steadfastly maintained since our founding has gradually won acclaim both within Japan and overseas. We can take pride that our university has taken on a vital international dimension.

Right now, who am I really? What can I accomplish? What should I do in this life? - in Zen, this is called "Inquiring into and clarifying self." Zen embodies a path of seeking knowledge of self. Throughout our lives, each individual seeks his or her own true path in life. Therefore, on our campus, which espouses the spirit of Zen, the starting point for education and research is the voluntary desire of the student, and the ultimate objective is independence. The goal of education is not merely the acquisition of specific levels of knowledge. Rather, it is the development of human qualities that the students can apply in their daily lives while in school and in their roles in society upon graduation.

In the future, we will maintain our self-sufficiency in working to improve our academic tradition, and continue to seek understanding and support for our unique tradition from all quarters.